The deadline for the 2008 Young Local Government Programme in England and Wales is approaching. Book online by clicking on the link opposite.

Michael Mitton of the Findhorn Foundation, who won the award for best paper at last November's Young Scotland Programme. Bookings now open for this November's programme.

Scottish young thinkers prepare for autumn challenge

The second of this year's courses in the annual Young Scotland Programme – at Stranraer from 17 to 21 November – will bring together new talent from a wide range of organisations for an intensive four-day challenge.
     This exciting initiative is part of the Young UK and Ireland Programme, which aims to develop the communication skills and expand the intellectual and social horizons of people who have left full-time education, are aged 18 or over (there is no upper age limit), and are in the early stages of their careers.
     The programme fulfils this vision through an annual series of residential courses which encourage the research, writing and presentational abilities of delegates and provides a forum for debate and dialogue.
     For employers, the programme offers an opportunity to enhance the skills and confidence of people of promise.
     At the end of the course, the author of the paper judged the most outstanding will be awarded the title Scotland Young Thinker of the Year, jointly with Madeleine Burns, who presented the best paper at the summer programme.
     By nominating a member or members of your team for the programme, employers will:
     • contribute to their personal and professional development
     • help develop their written and verbal communication skills and their         research capabilities
     • give them an opportunity to qualify for the UK and Ireland finals

Book online by clicking on the link opposite. Closing date for registration is Monday 13 October.

The third of this season's courses in the Young England and Wales Programme will take place at Lancaster from 9-11 January 2009. It will bring together delegates from the NHS, the police, fire and ambulance services, and colleges and universities. Click on the link opposite for more information and to book online.

Site updated 15 August 2008